In the world of combat sports, entertainment is as vital as competition, as it captivates fans and drives financial success. A good fight needs a storyline, compelling characters, and an electrifying climax in the fight. One important part of building a fighter’s persona is their nickname, as it encapsulates what the fighter wants to be perceived as. And one of the most distinct and memorable nicknames in the sport is ‘Baby Shark’, given to #10 ranked UFC women’s strawweight contender and heartthrob Tabatha Ricci. 

But how did she get her moniker? Does the nickname ‘Baby Shark’ truly reflect her fighting persona inside the Octagon? Let’s dig deeper to find out!

Why is Tabatha Ricci called ‘Baby Shark’?

Nicknames in the UFC often carry a story, a legacy wrapped in a few words. Think of Conor McGregor’s fiery ‘The Notorious’ or Dustin Poirier’s polished ‘The Diamond.’ But what about Tabatha Ricci’s playful moniker, ‘Baby Shark’? Is it a nod to the viral song that took over the internet? Not at all. The truth behind her nickname is a tale of grit, determination, and a touch of humor.

In a past interview with John Eric Poli, Tabatha Ricci was asked whether her nickname had anything to do with the viral song from 2016 that was impossible to escape from on the internet at the time. Ricci explained, “We have an instructor at Paragon jiu-jitsu, uh, all the time when I show up for training he goes ‘oh baby shark’ is here, so he always told me that because I go and train with all the guys.”

The name stuck. Why? Well, much like a shark, Tabatha’s small size belies her ferocity. She further explained, “You know I’m the only girl smaller girl, like face to face, they’re all these big guys. You know for me I rolled with everybody that’s not like [a] bad time so he always called me a baby shark.”

Her nickname became a badge of honor, symbolizing her willingness to train with bigger, stronger fighters without hesitation. In her own words, she simply “rolls with everybody.” There’s no ‘bad time’, no opponent too tough. But where did she find this motivation and determination to not let size differences intimidate her? Let’s take a look at her background and origins that have made Ricci a fearsome competitor inside the Octagon! 

More about Tabatha Ricci’s background and origins

For Tabatha Ricci, the UFC fighter nicknamed ‘Baby Shark’, her story is one of determination, passion, and a fierce love for martial arts that began long before she stepped into the Octagon.  Born in the small Brazilian town of Birigui, Sao Paulo, Ricci’s path to the UFC started with a Judo Gi and a father who believed in her. Carlos ‘Trovao’ Salto, a Judo black belt, introduced her to martial art at just six years old. Little did they know, this introduction would spark a journey that would take her halfway across the world.

By 15, Tabatha traded her Judo Gi for Muay Thai gloves, stepping into the ring with a tenacity that quickly brought victories, including the Brazilian Nationals. At 17, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu entered her life. It was a love affair from the start, and Tabatha dominated, winning world titles as a blue and purple belt. But even as the accolades piled up, she remained hungry for more.

In 2021, all her hard work paid off as the UFC came calling. However, making a promotional debut in just 4 days’ notice isn’t easy when it comes to facing some of the best fighters in the world. Ricci lost the debut bout but bounced back by going on an impressive 4-fight winning streak before dropping a split decision to Loopy Goodinez at UFC 295 in 2023. 

Now, ‘Baby Shark’ will be taking on the no. 2 ranked Yan Xiaonan at UFC Macau on November 23. Coming into the fight, Ricci is riding a 2-fight win streak and a win here could be the breakthrough she needs to cement herself as a challenger for the elusive UFC gold! What do you think of Tabatha Ricci’s journey to the UFC? Let us know in the comments below!